Ahavat Shalom, Chassidic discourses on the Torah portions, by Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager of Kosov – founder of the Vizhnitz and Kosov Chassidic dynasties. Lviv, [1833]. First edition.
Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager (1768-1826) was the son of R. Yaakov Koppel Chassid, cantor in the Beit Midrash of the Baal Shem Tov and member of his inner circle of disciples. He was the disciple of the early Chassidic masters R. Elimelech of Lizhensk and R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvorna. In 1802, after the passing of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvorna, he began leading his own court.
In the foreword, the author's son-in-law, R. Gershon of Rozdol, writes that much of his father-in-law's teachings are focused on three matters: the holiness of Shabbat, giving charity and Tikkun HaBrit. The book was compiled by R. Menachem Mendel's disciple – R. Chaim Natan Notte of Lantshin, who writes in his preface: "I heard these teachings from him on Friday nights and during the Shabbat morning meal, as well as when he would take leave of his visitors while discussing halachah, and brief thoughts conveyed during Seuda Shelishit… and I elaborated on them in my own words…when I was unsure of the proper intent… I intentionally used language which is open to interpretation, and each reader can use his own judgement…".
[4], 131 leaves. 23 cm. Uneven edges. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Many stains and wear to title page and subsequent leaves. Small, repaired marginal tears to title page and other leaves. Minor mold to some leaves. Minor worming to several leaves. Stamps and blurred inscriptions on title page. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 18.